Former Florida quarterback Tim Tebow started off poorly at the Senior Bowl, fumbling several snaps and throwing sloppily during his first practice Monday.

But he impressed the Miami Dolphins’ coaching staff throughout the week with his ability to take coaching and willingness to put in extra work away from the field.

“I thought it was outstanding,” Sparano said … of Tebow’s work ethic. “In the meeting room he’s been super, spending extra time. He’s been great to coach.”

Sparano, whose staff is coaching the South squad, gushed about Tebow’s ability to grasp the Dolphins’ offense this week, although it has been simplified for the Senior Bowl.

“One of the nice things with him is, you’ve got somebody lining up in the wrong spot, he’s got it, he can get them lined up right,” Sparano said. “He sees somebody maybe not run the right route or in the wrong place, he’s got it.

“This whole thing has really slowed down for him. He has great command for what we’re trying to do.”

Tim Tebow doesn’t possess the skills to be a traditional QB, but he’s coachable and has a great personality. The Jets are going back to the playoffs, baby! [Palm Beach Post via Costello]